Imaging apparatus, external apparatus, imaging system, control method for imaging apparatus, control method for external apparatus, control method for imaging system, and program

ABSTRACT

An imaging apparatus which communicates with an external apparatus via a network, includes an imaging unit; a first image processing unit configured to change, by image processing, a brightness of a captured image output from the imaging unit; a second image processing unit configured to change, by image processing that is different from the image processing by the first image processing unit, a brightness of a captured image output from the imaging unit; a receiving unit configured to receive, from the external apparatus via the network, a single command in which first image processing information for controlling an operation of the first image processing unit and second image processing information for controlling an operation of the second image processing unit may be described; and a control unit configured to control the first image processing unit and the second image processing unit in accordance with the command received by the receiving unit.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/035,462, filed on May 9, 2016, that is a national phase applicationof international patent application PCT/JP2014/005600 filed on Nov. 7,2014, which patent(s) and patent applications are hereby incorporated byreference herein in their entireties. This application also claims thebenefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2013-234250, filed Nov. 12,2013, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein intheir entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus, an externalapparatus, an imaging system, a control method for the imagingapparatus, a control method for the external apparatus, a control methodfor the imaging system, and a program. More particularly, the presentinvention is suitably applicable to a process for brightening a capturedimage.

BACKGROUND ART

There has been a problem that, when an image of an outdoor scene iscaptured from an indoor location, a subject is darkened against a brightbackground and is difficult to see. As a solution to such a problem,plural techniques to brighten a captured image output from an imagingunit have been known.

There has been, for example, a backlight correction process in which acaptured image is brightened by performing gain correction and the likeof the captured image. Further, a wide dynamic range process has beenknown in which multiple captured images are synthesized and thesynthesized image having a wide dynamic range is obtained. PTL 1discloses a technique of synthesizing multiple captured images withdifferent exposure times to generate a captured image with a dynamicrange wider than normal.

As an example of the techniques mentioned above, in silver saltphotography, there has been a dodging process performed in a darkroomfor obtaining a photograph with a wide dynamic range. There has been atechnique (digital dodging process) which is realized by applying thedodging process to a digital image process, in which a captured image ofa subject having a large difference between brightness and darkness,particularly a subject under backlight, is corrected. Further, in thedigital dodging process, in order to adjust the intensity of theprocess, the gain and the like of a captured image are changed.

As another example of the techniques mentioned above, a process has beenknown which outputs a captured image with a subject that is easilyidentifiable, by employing a process of exposure correction of a singlecaptured image.

Further, in recent years, there has been a case where a single imagingapparatus is provided with those multiple processes. In addition, with arapidly spreading network technology, there has been an increasinguser's need for controlling such an imaging apparatus from an externalapparatus through a network.

However, in the imaging apparatus described above, a captured imagebecomes too bright in some cases when those multiple processes areperformed simultaneously. For example, when a backlight correctionprocess, a wide dynamic range process, and a digital dodging process areperformed on a captured image at the same time, the captured image maybecome too bright.

Further, whether or not a captured image becomes too bright due to thesimultaneous execution of those multiple processes on the capturedimage, depends on a subject. When it is assumed that the above-describedimaging apparatus captures an image of an outdoor scene or that asubject moves during imaging, the subject image changes constantly.

Furthermore, with the imaging apparatus described above, whether or notthe captured image becomes too bright also depends on the degree atwhich each of the processes brightens the captured image. However, thedegree at which each of the processes brightens the captured imagevaries according to the model of the imaging apparatus or themanufacturer of the imaging apparatus.

Therefore, in the case where the imaging apparatus described above isinstalled at a place remote from a user, it is difficult for the useroperating an external apparatus to control individual performances ofprocesses in an attempt to prevent the captured image from becoming toobright, while taking into account changes of a subject of the imagingapparatus and the model or manufacturer of the imaging apparatus.

CITATION LIST Patent Literature

[PTL 1]

-   Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2008-236142

SUMMARY OF INVENTION Solution to Problem

The present invention has been made in consideration of the aboveissues, and reduces the need for controlling performances of a firstprocess and a second process for brightening a captured image inaccordance with effects of the first process and the second process.

The present invention provides an imaging apparatus which communicateswith an external apparatus via a network, including an imaging unit; afirst image processing unit configured to change, by image processing, abrightness of a captured image output from the imaging unit; a secondimage processing unit configured to change, by image processing that isdifferent from the image processing by the first image processing unit,a brightness of a captured image output from the imaging unit; areceiving unit configured to receive, from the external apparatus viathe network, a single command in which first image processinginformation for controlling an operation of the first image processingunit and second image processing information for controlling anoperation of the second image processing unit may be described; and acontrol unit configured to control the first image processing unit andthe second image processing unit in accordance with the command receivedby the receiving unit. The first image processing information includesat least anyone of information indicating that the first imageprocessing unit is caused to be operated and information indicating thatthe first image processing unit is caused to be stopped. The secondimage processing information includes at least anyone of informationindicating that the second image processing unit is caused to beoperated, information indicating that the second image processing unitis caused to be stopped, and information indicating that the operationof the second image processing unit is caused to be automaticallycontrolled by the imaging apparatus.

Further features of the present invention will become apparent from thefollowing description of exemplary embodiments with reference to theattached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration ofa monitoring system according to a first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configurationof a monitoring camera according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configurationof a client apparatus according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining a command sequence betweenthe monitoring camera and the client apparatus according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram for explaining a command sequence betweenthe monitoring camera and the client apparatus according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating an example of a definition of anImagingSettings type according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating an example of the definition of theImagingSettings type according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6C is a diagram illustrating an example of the definition of theImagingSettings type according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6D is a diagram illustrating an example of the definition of theImagingSettings type according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6E is a diagram illustrating an example of the definition of theImagingSettings type according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating a command configuration example of aSetImagingSettings transaction according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating a command configuration example of theSetImagingSettings transaction according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7C is a diagram illustrating a command configuration example of theSetImagingSettings transaction according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7D is a diagram illustrating a command configuration example of theSetImagingSettings transaction according to the first embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an ImagingSettings windowaccording to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining a process for displaying theImagingSettings window according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention will be described hereinafter withreference to figures.

Configurations in the description below of the embodiments are onlyexamples, and the present invention is not limited to the illustratedconfigurations. Commands in the description of the embodiments below aredefined, for example, based on the standard of Open Network VideoInterface Forum (hereinafter, may be referred to as ONVIF).

First Embodiment

Hereinafter, a network configuration according to a first embodimentwill be described with reference to FIG. 1. More particularly, FIG. 1 isa diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of amonitoring system according to the first embodiment.

In the monitoring system according to the first embodiment, a monitoringcamera 1000 which captures a moving image and a client apparatus 2000are connected in a mutually communicable manner via an IP network 1500(through a network). This enables the monitoring camera 1000 todistribute captured images to the client apparatus 2000 via the IPnetwork 1500.

The client apparatus 2000 according to the first embodiment is anexample of an external apparatus such as a PC or the like. A monitoringsystem according to the first embodiment corresponds to an imagingsystem.

Further, the IP network 1500 includes, for example, multiple routers,switches, cables, and the like, which comply with a communicationstandard such as Ethernet® or the like. However, in the firstembodiment, any communication standard, size, or configuration may beused as long as communication between the monitoring camera 1000 and theclient apparatus 2000 is possible.

For example, the IP network 1500 may be the Internet, a wired local areanetwork (LAN), a wireless LAN, a wide area network (WAN), or the like.The monitoring camera 1000 according to the first embodiment may be, forexample, compatible with Power Over Ethernet® (PoE) or supplied withelectricity through a LAN cable.

The client apparatus 2000 sends various commands to the monitoringcamera 1000. Those commands include, for example, a command for changingan imaging direction or an image angle of the monitoring camera 1000, acommand for changing an imaging parameter, a command for starting imagestreaming, and the like.

The monitoring camera 1000 sends to the client apparatus 2000 a responseto those commands and image streaming. Further, the monitoring camera1000 changes an image angle in accordance with a command received fromthe client apparatus 2000 for changing the image angle.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configurationof the monitoring camera 1000 according to the first embodiment.

A control unit 1001 in FIG. 2 comprehensively controls individualcomponents of the monitoring camera 1000. The control unit 1001 includesa central processing unit (CPU). The control unit 1001 executes aprogram stored in a storage unit 1002. Alternatively, the control unit1001 may be configured to perform control by using hardware.

The storage unit 1002 is used as storage areas of various data, such asa storage area of a program executed mainly by the control unit 1001, awork area during execution of a program, and a storage area of acaptured image generated by an imaging unit 1004 described later. Acommunication unit 1003 receives individual control commands from theclient apparatus 2000. Further, the communication unit 1003 sendsindividual control commands to the client apparatus 2000.

The imaging unit 1004 includes an imaging optical system and an imagingelement such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementarymetal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS), which are not illustrated, and thelike. The imaging unit 1004 generates an analogue signal by capturing animage of a subject whose image is formed by the imaging optical system.The imaging unit 1004 converts the generated analogue signal intodigital data.

The imaging unit 1004 outputs the converted digital data as a capturedimage to the storage unit 1002, an exposure correction processing unit1005, and a wide dynamic range image synthesis processing unit 1006.

The exposure correction processing unit 1005 analyzes a captured imageoutput from the imaging unit 1004, and performs an exposure correctionprocess on the captured image, based on the details of image processingsetting stored in the storage unit 1002. Further, the exposurecorrection processing unit 1005 outputs the captured image, on which theexposure correction process has been performed, to the storage unit1002.

The exposure correction process according to the first embodimentincludes a backlight correction process, a dark part correction process,and the like. The backlight correction process is a process forperforming gain correction for a captured image and the like to brightenthe entire captured image, which includes a dark part under thebacklight condition.

The dark part correction process is an image process for determining adark part included in a captured image and brightening the determineddark part in a focused manner by gain correction and the like. The darkpart correction process may also cause a bright part to be brightenedwhich is included in the captured image. Because of this, when the darkpart correction process is performed in conjunction with the backlightcorrection process and a wide dynamic range image synthesis process,which will be described later, a captured image output from the imagingunit 1004 may become too bright.

The exposure correction process according to the first embodiment isprovided with an exposure setting function to set exposure conditions ofthe imaging unit 1004. The exposure conditions include an aperture valueof the imaging optical system included in the imaging unit 1004, anexposure time (storage time) of the imaging element included in theimaging unit 1004, and the like.

The exposure correction processing unit 1005 according to the firstembodiment corresponds to an exposure setting unit which sets exposureconditions of the imaging unit 1004 and obtains a captured imagegenerated by capturing an image of a subject with the imaging unit 1004under the set exposure conditions.

Regarding the wide dynamic range image synthesis processing unit 1006,hereinafter, a wide dynamic range may be abbreviated as a WDR and a widedynamic range image synthesis process may be abbreviated as a WDRprocess.

The WDR image synthesis processing unit 1006 performs a WDR process,which expands a dynamic range of a captured image output from theimaging unit 1004, based on the details of image processing settingstored in the storage unit 1002.

In the WDR process, parts having optimal brightnesses are determinedfrom among multiple images with different exposure conditions outputfrom the imaging unit 1004, and the determined parts of the multipleimages are synthesized to generate a synthesized captured image having awide dynamic range. The WDR image synthesis processing unit 1006 outputsthe generated synthesized captured image to the storage unit 1002.

The exposure conditions in the first embodiment include an exposure time(storage time) and the like of the imaging element included in theimaging unit 1004. Further, the WDR image synthesis processing unit 1006according to the first embodiment corresponds to a first imageprocessing unit which synthesizes plural captured images generated bycapturing a subject with the imaging unit 1004 under different exposureconditions to generate a synthesized captured image.

A compression encoding unit 1007 performs a compression encoding processon a captured image output from the imaging unit 1004, the exposurecorrection processing unit 1005, and the WDR image synthesis processingunit 1006, based on a method of Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG),H.264, H.265, or the like, in accordance with the details of compressionencoding setting. The compression encoding setting is stored in thestorage unit 1002. The compression encoding unit 1007 outputs to thestorage unit 1002 the captured image on which the compression encodingprocess has been performed.

When the monitoring camera 1000 according to the first embodiment isrequested by the client apparatus 2000 for streaming distribution, themonitoring camera 1000 performs streaming distribution of capturedimages output from the compression encoding unit 1007 to outside via thecommunication unit 1003, based on the details of the request.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configurationof the client apparatus 2000 according to the first embodiment. Theclient apparatus 2000 according to the first embodiment is configured asa computer apparatus connected to the IP network 1500.

A control unit 2001 in FIG. 3 controls the entire client apparatus 2000.The control unit 2001 includes, for example, a CPU, and executes aprogram stored in a storage unit 2002, which will be described later.Alternatively, the control unit 2001 may be configured to performcontrol by using hardware. The storage unit 2002 is used as a storagearea for a program executed by the control unit 2001, a work area duringexecution of a program, and a data storage area.

A communication unit 2003 receives an instruction from the control unit2001 and sends a command and the like to the monitoring camera 1000. Thecommunication unit 2003 also receives from the monitoring camera 1000 aresponse to the command, a captured image distributed through streaming,and the like.

An input unit 2004 includes, for example, a button, a cross key, a touchpanel, a mouse, and the like. The input unit 2004 receives an input ofan instruction from a user. For example, the input unit 2004 receives,as an instruction from a user, an input of an instruction for sendingvarious commands to the monitoring camera 1000.

When the input unit 2004 receives from a user a command sendinginstruction to the monitoring camera 1000, the input unit 2004 notifiesthe control unit 2001 of the input of the command sending instruction.The control unit 2001 generates a command to the monitoring camera 1000in accordance with the instruction input to the input unit 2004. Then,the control unit 2001 instructs the communication unit 2003 to send thegenerated command to the monitoring camera 1000.

Further, the input unit 2004 is able to receive an input of a responsefrom a user to an inquiry message or the like to the user, which hasbeen generated when the control unit 2001 executes a program stored inthe storage unit 2002.

A decoding unit 2005 decodes and expands a captured image output fromthe communication unit 2003. The decoding unit 2005 outputs the decodedand expanded captured image to a display unit 2006. Then, the displayunit 2006 displays an image corresponding to the captured image outputfrom the decoding unit 2005.

The display unit 2006 is able to display an inquiry message or the liketo the user, which has been generated when the control unit 2001executes a program stored in the storage unit 2002.

The internal configurations of the monitoring camera 1000 and the clientapparatus 2000 have been described above. The processing blocksillustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 are only for exemplifying an embodimentof the imaging apparatus and the external apparatus in the presentinvention, and the internal configurations of the monitoring camera 1000and the client apparatus 2000 are not limited to those described above.Various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of thepresent invention, such as providing a voice input unit and a voiceoutput unit.

FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining a typical command sequencebetween the monitoring camera 1000 and the client apparatus 2000, fromthe start of setting of a parameter for a captured image to bedistributed through streaming to streaming distribution of the capturedimage.

A transaction in the first embodiment represents a pair of a commandsent from the client apparatus 2000 to the monitoring camera 1000 and aresponse to the command sent from the monitoring camera 1000 to theclient apparatus 2000.

In FIG. 4, reference numeral 6000 represents a transaction of networkapparatus connection. The client apparatus 2000 sends, to the IP network1500 through unicast or multicast transmission, a Probe command forconnection between network apparatuses. The monitoring camera 1000connected to the network sends a ProbeMatch response, which indicatesthat a command is acceptable, to the client apparatus 2000.

Reference numeral 6001 represents a Subscribe transaction. Through thistransaction, the client apparatus 2000 is able to issue an instructionto the monitoring camera 1000 to perform event distribution.

Reference numeral 6002 represents a GetProfiles transaction. This is atransaction for acquiring a MediaProfile, which corresponds to adistribution profile. A MediaProfile is a parameter set for storingvarious setting items of the monitoring camera 1000 in association withone another.

The various setting items include a ProfileToken, which is an ID of aMediaProfile, a VideoSourceConfiguration and aVideoEncoderConfiguration, which will be described later, a voiceencoder, and the like. A MediaProfile holds a link to the varioussetting items.

The client apparatus 2000 sends a GetProfiles command to the monitoringcamera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives the GetProfiles commandand then sends a MediaProfile list to the client apparatus 2000.

Thus, the client apparatus 2000 acquires, along with a distributionprofile ID for identifying a MediaProfile, a list of MediaProfiles whichare currently available for use by the monitoring camera 1000. Theclient apparatus 2000 identifies, based on the distribution profile ID,distributable profile setting existing in the monitoring camera 1000.

Reference numeral 6003 represents a transaction of a GetVideoSourcescommand. With this command, the client apparatus 2000 acquires a listVideoSources held by the monitoring camera 1000.

A VideoSource is a parameter set representing the performance of theimaging unit 1004 provided in the monitoring camera 1000. AVideoSourceincludes a VideoSourceToken, which is an ID of a VideoSource, andResolution, which represents the resolution of a captured image whichcan be output by the imaging unit 1004.

The client apparatus 2000 sends a GetVideoSources command to themonitoring camera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives theGetVideoSources command and then sends a response to this command to theclient apparatus 2000.

Reference numeral 6004 represents a GetVideoSourceConfigurationstransaction. This transaction is a transaction for acquiring a list ofVideoSourceConfigurations held by the monitoring camera 1000.

A VideoSourceConfiguration represents a parameter set for associating aVideoSource, provided in the monitoring camera 1000, with aMediaProfile. Further, a VideoSourceConfiguration includes Bounds, whichspecifies a part, of a captured image output from a VideoSource, to becut out for an image to be distributed.

Hereinafter, a VideoSourceConfiguration may be referred to as a VSC.

The client apparatus 2000 sends a GetVideoSourceConfigurations commandto the monitoring camera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives theGetVideoSourceConfigurations command and then sends to the clientapparatus 2000 a list which includes the ID of a VSC held by themonitoring camera 1000.

Reference numeral 6005 represents a GetVideoEncorderConfigurationstransaction. Through this transaction, the client apparatus 2000acquires a list of VideoEncorderConfigurations held by the monitoringcamera 1000.

The client apparatus 2000 sends a GetVideoEncorderConfigurations commandto the monitoring camera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives theGetVideoEncorderConfigurations command and then sends a response to thiscommand.

A VideoEncorderConfiguration is a parameter set for associatingcompression encoding setting concerning compression encoding of acaptured image output from the imaging unit 1004, with a MediaProfile.Hereinafter, a VideoEncorderConfiguration may be referred to as a VEC.Compression encoding setting is stored in the storage unit 1002.

A VEC includes a VECToken, which is an ID of a VEC, Encoding forspecifying a compression encoding method (JPEG, H.264, or the like),Resolution for specifying the resolution of an output image, and Qualityfor specifying compression encoding quality. The VEC further includes,concerning a captured image output from the monitoring camera 1000,FramerateLimit for specifying the maximum frame rate and BitrateLimitfor specifying the maximum bit rate.

For example, the monitoring camera 1000 performs compression encoding,according to a parameter set in the VEC, on a captured image output fromthe imaging unit 1004 based on the details of the VideoSource and theVSC, and distributes the processed captured image to the clientapparatus 2000 via the communication unit 1003.

Reference numeral 6006 represents a GetVideoEncorderConfigurationOptionstransaction. Through this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 is ableto acquire, concerning the VEC specified by the ID, options ofindividual parameters or the range of set values that can be accepted bythe monitoring camera 1000.

The client apparatus 2000 sends a GetVideoEncorderConfigurationOptionscommand to the monitoring camera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000receives the GetVideoEncorderConfigurationOptions command and then sendsa response to this command. Through this transaction, the clientapparatus 2000 acquires from the monitoring camera 1000 a list whichincludes the ID of compression encoding setting stored in the storageunit 1002.

Reference numeral 6007 represents a CreatePorfile transaction. Thistransaction is a transaction for requesting creation of a distributionprofile. The client apparatus 2000 sends a CreateProfile command to themonitoring camera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives theCreatePorfile command and then sends a response to this command.

Through this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 is able to create anew distribution profile in the monitoring camera 1000, and acquires theID of the created distribution profile. Further, the monitoring camera1000 stores the newly created distribution profile.

After the command processing for the transaction, the monitoring camera1000 sends a MediaProfile change notification event to the clientapparatus 2000, and thereby notifies the client apparatus 2000 of theoccurrence of a change in the Media Profile.

Reference numeral 6008 represents an AddVideoSourceConfigurationtransaction. This transaction is a transaction for requesting additionof a VSC. The client apparatus 2000 sends an AddVideoSourceConfigurationcommand to the monitoring camera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000receives the AddVideoSourceConfiguration command and then sends aresponse to this command to the client apparatus 2000.

In this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 specifies thedistribution profile ID acquired in the transaction 6007 and the ID ofthe VSC acquired in the transaction 6004. Thus, the client apparatus2000 is able to associate a desired VSC corresponding to the ID of thespecified VSC with the MediaProfile corresponding to the specifieddistribution profile ID.

Meanwhile, the monitoring camera 1000 stores the MediaProfilecorresponding to the distribution profile ID specified by the clientapparatus 2000 and the desired VSC corresponding to the ID of the VSCspecified by the client apparatus 2000 in the storage unit 1002 inassociation with each other.

Reference numeral 6009 represents an AddVideoEncorderConfigurationtransaction. This transaction is a transaction for requesting additionof a VEC. The client apparatus 2000 sends anAddVideoEncorderConfiguration command to the monitoring camera 1000. Themonitoring camera 1000 sends a response to theAddVideoEncorderConfiguration command to the client apparatus 2000.

In this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 specifies thedistribution profile ID acquired in the transaction 6007 and the ID ofthe VEC acquired in the transaction 6005. Thus, the client apparatus2000 is able to associate the VEC corresponding to the ID of thespecified VEC with the MediaProfile corresponding to the specifieddistribution profile ID.

Meanwhile, the monitoring camera 1000 stores the MediaProfilecorresponding to the distribution profile ID specified by the clientapparatus 2000 and the desired VEC corresponding to the ID of the VECspecified by the client apparatus 2000 in association with each other.

After the processing of the transactions 6008 and 6009, the monitoringcamera 1000 sends a MediaProfile change notification event to the clientapparatus 2000, and thereby notifies the client apparatus 2000 of theoccurrence of a change in the MediaProfile.

Reference numeral 6010 represents a SetVideoEncorderConfigurationtransaction. This transaction is a transaction for setting individualparameters of the VEC. The client apparatus 2000 sends theSetVideoEncorderConfiguration command to the monitoring camera 1000.

The monitoring camera 1000 receives the SetVideoEncorderConfigurationcommand and then sends a response to this command. Through thistransaction, the client apparatus 2000 sets, based on the optionsacquired in the transaction 6006, the details of the VEC acquired in thetransaction 6005. For example, a compression encoding method or cuttingsize is changed. The monitoring camera 1000 stores the details of thecompression encoding setting and the like.

After the processing of the transaction, the monitoring camera 1000sends a VEC change notification event to the client apparatus 2000, andthereby notifies the client apparatus 2000 of the occurrence of a changein the VEC.

Reference numeral 6011 represents a GetStreamUri transaction. Thistransaction is a transaction for requesting acquisition of adistribution address. In this transaction, the client apparatus 2000specifies the distribution profile ID acquired in the transaction 6007and acquires an address (uniform resource identifier (URI)) foracquiring a captured image to be distributed through streaming, and thelike, based on the setting of the specified distribution profile.

The monitoring camera 1000 sends to the client apparatus 2000 theaddress for distribution through streaming of an image corresponding tothe details of the VSC and the VEC associated with the distributionprofile ID specified by the client apparatus 2000.

Reference numeral 6012 represents a DESCRIBE transaction. Thistransaction is a transaction for requesting acquisition of distributioninformation. The client apparatus 2000 sends a DESCRIBE command to themonitoring camera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives the DESCRIBEcommand and then sends a response to this command to the clientapparatus 2000.

In this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 executes the DESCRIBEcommand by using the URI acquired in the transaction 6011, and therebyrequests and acquires information of the content to be distributedthrough streaming by the monitoring camera 1000.

Reference numeral 6013 represents a SETUP transaction. This transactionis a transaction for requesting distribution setting. The clientapparatus 2000 sends a SETUP command to the monitoring camera 1000. Themonitoring camera 1000 receives the SETUP command and then sends aresponse to this command to the client apparatus 2000.

In this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 causes the monitoringcamera 1000 to prepare for streaming, based on detailed data on thedistribution information acquired in the transaction 6012. By executingthis command, the client apparatus 2000 and the monitoring camera 1000share a stream transmission method including a session number.

Reference numeral 6014 represents a PLAY transaction. This transactionis a transaction for starting streaming distribution. The clientapparatus 2000 sends a PLAY command to the monitoring camera 1000. Themonitoring camera 1000 receives the PLAY command and then sends aresponse to this command to the client apparatus 2000.

When sending the PLAY command to the monitoring camera 1000, the clientapparatus 2000 can request the monitoring camera 1000 to start streamingdistribution by using the session number acquired in the transaction6013.

Reference numeral 6015 represents a stream distributed from themonitoring camera 1000 to the client apparatus 2000. The streamrequested to start in the transaction 6014 is distributed by thetransmission method shared in the transaction 6013.

Reference numeral 6016 represents a TEARDOWN transaction. Thistransaction is a transaction for stopping streaming distribution. Theclient apparatus 2000 sends a TEARDOWN command to the monitoring camera1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives the TEARDOWN command and thensends a response to this command.

In this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 executes the TEARDOWNcommand by specifying the session number acquired in the transaction6013, and thereby requests the monitoring camera 1000 to stop thestreaming distribution.

FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram for explaining a typical command sequencebetween the monitoring camera 1000 and the client apparatus 2000, forchanging ImagingSetting, which corresponds to image processing setting.

Reference numeral 6050 in FIG. 5 represents a GetServices transaction.Through this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 is able to acquiretypes of Web services supported by the monitoring camera 1000 and theaddress URI for using each of the Web services.

The client apparatus 2000 sends a GetServices command to the monitoringcamera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives the GetServices commandand then sends a response to this command.

Reference numeral 6051 represents a GetServiceCapabilities transaction.Through this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 is able to acquire alist of functions of the individual Web services acquired in thetransaction 6050.

The client apparatus 2000 sends a GetServiceCapabilities command to themonitoring camera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives theGetServiceCapabilities command and then sends a response to thiscommand.

Reference numeral 6052 represents a GetImagingSettings transaction.Through this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 is able to acquire alist of GetImagingSettings held by the monitoring camera 1000. TheGetImagingSettings are stored in the storage unit 1002.

The client apparatus 2000 sends a GetImagingSettings command to themonitoring camera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives theGetImagingSettings command and then sends a response to this command.

Reference numeral 6053 represents a GetOptions command transaction.Through this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 is able to acquirean option concerning a parameter for the ImagingSettings which isacceptable by the monitoring camera 1000.

The client apparatus 2000 sends a GetOptions command to the monitoringcamera 1000. The monitoring camera 1000 receives the GetOptions commandand then sends a response to this command.

Reference numeral 6054 represents a SetImagingSettings transaction.Through this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 sends a newImagingSettings to the monitoring camera 1000, and is thereby able tochange the details of ImagingSettings stored in the storage unit 1002.

Reference numeral 6055 represents an ImagingSetting change notificationevent. After the command processing of the transaction 6054, themonitoring camera 1000 sends the ImagingSetting change notificationevent to the client apparatus 2000, and thereby notifies the clientapparatus 2000 of the occurrence of a change in the ImagingSettings.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E are diagrams for explaining examples of adefinition of an ImagingSettings type according to the first embodiment.In the first embodiment, to define the ImagingSettings type, an XMLSchema Definition language (hereafter, may be referred to as “XSD”),which is used for the ONVIF standard, is employed.

FIG. 6A illustrates the details of the ImagingSettings type. In FIG. 6A,a sequence specifier specifies that the elements of FIG. 6A appear inthe defined order. For example, BacklightCompensation, which will bedescribed later, appears before WideDynamicRange and DarkCompensation.WideDynamicRange appears before DarkCompensation.

In FIG. 6A, BacklightCompensation (hereinafter, may be referred to asBLC) represents a parameter for causing the backlight correction processof the exposure correction processing unit 1005 to be ON or OFF. The BLCis configured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to beomitted.

Brightness represents a parameter for specifying the brightness of acaptured image output from the imaging unit 1004. Brightness isconfigured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to beomitted. ColorSaturation represents a parameter for specifying thesaturation of a captured image output from the imaging unit 1004.ColorSaturation is configured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, tobe able to be omitted.

Contrast represents a parameter for specifying the density of color of acaptured image output from the imaging unit 1004. Contrast isconfigured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to beomitted. Exposure represents a parameter for changing the exposure of acaptured image output from the imaging unit 1004. Exposure isconfigured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to beomitted.

Focus represents a parameter for changing the focus setting of theimaging unit 1004. Focus is configured, by a minOccurs specifier of theXSD, to be able to be omitted. IrCutFilter represents a parameter forchanging the setting of an infrared cut filter (IRCF), which can beinserted in and removed from an optical path of the imaging opticalsystem included in the imaging unit 1004.

The IRCF is a filter for blocking an infrared ray. IrCutFilter isconfigured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to beomitted.

Sharpness represents a parameter for changing the sharpness setting of acaptured image output from the imaging unit 1004. Sharpness isconfigured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to beomitted.

WideDynamicRange represents a parameter for changing the setting of aWDR process by the WDR image synthesis processing unit 1006. For aWideDynamicRange value, ON or OFF can be set. WideDynamicRange isconfigured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to beomitted.

WideDynamicRange with the value set to ON indicates that the monitoringcamera 1000 is caused to be ON for the WDR process. WideDynamicRangewith the value set to OFF indicates that the monitoring camera 1000 iscaused to be OFF for the WDR process. The SetImagingSettings commandaccording to the first embodiment corresponds to a synthesis command forcontrolling the operation of the WDR image synthesis processing unit1006.

WhiteBalance represents a parameter for adjusting the white balance of acaptured image output from the imaging unit 1004. WhiteBalance isconfigured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to beomitted. Extension includes an extended parameter which is developed asillustrated in FIG. 6B. Extension is configured, by a minOccursspecifier of the XSD, to be able to be omitted.

FIGS. 6B, 6C, 6D and 6E are parameters to be added to ImagingSettingsillustrated in FIG. 6A. These parameters are part of image processingsetting as with each parameter in FIG. 6A.

ImageStabilization in FIG. 6B represents a parameter for setting avibration-proof function for a captured image output from the imagingunit 1004. In FIG. 6B, a sequence specifier specifies that the elementsof FIG. 6B appear in the defined order.

IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment in FIG. 6C represents a parameter for settinginformation (luminance level of a subject or delay time) used in caseswhere an IRCF is inserted and removed. In FIG. 6C, a sequence specifierspecifies that the elements of FIG. 6C appear in the defined order.

Each of ImageStabilization and IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment is configured,by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to be omitted.

DarkCompensation in FIG. 6D represents a parameter for setting a darkpart correction process by the exposure correction processing unit 1005which detects a dark part of a captured image output from the imagingunit 1004 and brightens the detected dark part. In FIG. 6D, a sequencespecifier specifies that the elements of FIG. 6D appear in the definedorder.

Hereinafter, DarkCompensation may be referred to as DC. DarkCompensationis configured, by a minOccurs specifier of the XSD, to be able to beomitted.

For a DC value, ON, OFF or AUTO can be set. DC with the value set to ONindicates that the monitoring camera 1000 is caused to be ON for thedark part correction process. DC with the value set to OFF indicatesthat the monitoring camera 1000 is caused to be OFF for the dark partcorrection process. Further, DC with the value set to AUTO indicatesthat the monitoring camera 1000 is caused to automatically determine ONor OFF for the dark part correction process.

Thus, the SetImagingSettings command in the first embodiment correspondsto an exposure setting command for controlling the operation of theexposure correction processing unit 1005.

For a DC value, any one of ON, OFF and AUTO can be set. (That is,options for DC include ON, OFF, and AUTO.)

Therefore, in the GetOptions transaction 6053, the above mentionedoption is returned to the client apparatus 2000, concerning WDR, BC, andDC, as a settable parameter.

In the SetImagingSettings transaction 6054, it is possible to add aLevel parameter for specifying an effective intensity to WDR with thevalue of ON. Likewise, in this transaction, a Level parameter forspecifying an effective intensity can be added to DC with the value ofON.

In the first embodiment, a Level parameter which corresponds to WDR withthe value of ON corresponds to a level at which a captured image outputfrom the imaging unit 1004 is brightened by the WDR image synthesisprocessing unit 1006. Further, it is assumed that the value of thislevel is limited within a specified range.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D illustrate command configuration examples of aSetImagingSettings transaction 6054. The command is described in anextensible markup language (XML).

FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of theSetImagingSettings command. The command is provided for updating theabove-mentioned setting parameters of BacklightCompensation (7001),WideDynamicRange (7002), and DarkCompensation (7003).

The client apparatus 2000 notifies the monitoring camera 1000 of thecommand in FIG. 7A, and the setting parameters stored in the monitoringcamera 1000 are updated accordingly.

As illustrated in FIG. 7A, in the SetImagingSettings command, thesetting parameter for the BacklightCompensation (7001) is describedbefore the setting parameter for the WideDynamicRange (7002).

Further, in the SetImagingSettings command, the setting parameter forthe WideDynamicRange (7002) is described before the setting parameterfor the DarkCompensation (7003).

FIGS. 7B, 7C, and 7D illustrate individual setting parameters. FIG. 7Billustrates a configuration of a setting parameter for theBacklightCompensation (7001). The value of the Mode of the settingparameter is set to ON. When the value of the Mode is set to ON, theLevel can be described for the setting parameter. The value of the Levelof the setting parameter is set to 1.8.

The setting parameter for the BacklightCompensation (7001) according tothe first embodiment indicates that backlight correction process iscaused to be performed and corresponds to first image processinginformation which indicates the level at which a captured image outputfrom the imaging unit 1004 is brightened by the backlight correctionprocess.

As described above, the value of the Mode of the BacklightCompensation(7001) is not limited to ON. For this Mode, ON or OFF is set in analternative manner.

When the value of the Mode is set to OFF, the Level cannot be describedfor the setting parameter. In the ONVIF, the value of the Level is anumerical value, and as for the unit of this value, it is defined asunit-less. Further, in the ONVIF, while the value range is limitedwithin a specified range, the upper limit and the lower limit of therange are freely defined by individual monitoring camera manufacturers.

It is configured that the larger the Level value, the brighter thecaptured image output from the imaging unit 1004.

FIG. 7C is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a setting parameterfor the WideDynamicRange. The value of the Mode of the setting parameteris set to ON. When the value of the Mode is set to ON, the Level can bedescribed for the setting parameter.

The setting parameter for the WideDynamicRange (7002) in the firstembodiment indicates that the WDR process is caused to be performed andcorresponds to first image processing information which indicates thelevel at which a captured image output from the imaging unit 1004 isbrightened by the WDR process. Further, as described above, the value ofthe Mode of the WideDynamicRange (7002) is not limited to ON. For thisMode, ON or OFF is set in an alternative manner.

When the value of the Mode is set to OFF, the Level cannot be describedfor the setting parameter. In the ONVIF, the value of the Level is anumerical value, and as for the unit of this value, it is defined asunit-less. Further, in the ONVIF, while the value range is limitedwithin a specified range, the upper limit and the lower limit of therange are freely defined by individual monitoring camera manufacturers.

It is configured that the larger the Level value, the brighter thecaptured image output from the imaging unit 1004.

FIG. 7D is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a setting parameterfor the DarkCompensation (7003). In FIG. 7D, parameter valuescorresponding to settings illustrated in FIG. 8, which will be describedlater, are exemplified. The value of the Mode of this setting parameteris set to AUTO.

As described above, the value of the Mode of the setting parameter forthe DarkCompensation (7003) in the first embodiment is not limited toAUTO. For this Mode, ON, OFF, or AUTO is set in an alternative manner.

When the value of the Mode is set to ON, the Level can be described forthe setting parameter. When the value of the Mode is set to OFF or AUTO,the Level cannot be described for the setting parameter.

In the ONVIF, the value of the Level is a numerical value, and as forthe unit of this value, it is defined as unit-less. Further, in theONVIF, the value range is limited within a specified range.Specifically, the value range is defined between 0 and +1.0. It isconfigured that the larger the Level value, the brighter the capturedimage output from the imaging unit 1004.

The SetImagingSettings command in the first embodiment corresponds to asingle command in which the first image processing informationconcerning the operation of the exposure correction processing unit 1005and the second image processing information concerning the operation ofthe WDR image synthesis processing unit 1006 can be described.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of an ImagingSettingswindow for setting ImagingSettings of the monitoring camera 1000. Thewindow is displayed on the display unit 2006 under the control of thecontrol unit 2001.

In FIG. 8, an ImagingSettings window 8000 includes a WideDynamicRangesetting parameter input area 8010 and a DarkCompensation settingparameter input area 8020. The ImagingSettings window 8000 also includesa BacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030, a set button8040, and a close button 8041.

On the window in FIG. 8, the BacklightCompensation setting parameterinput area 8030 is displayed upper than the WideDynamicRange settingparameter input area 8010. Further, on the window in FIG. 8, theWideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010 is displayed upperthan the DarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020.

The WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010 includes radiobuttons of two options ON and OFF. In the first embodiment, the optionON corresponds to a synthesis operation option which indicates that theWDR image synthesis processing unit 1006 is caused to perform anoperation, and the option OFF corresponds to a synthesis stop optionwhich indicates that the WDR image synthesis processing unit 1006 iscaused to be stopped.

Therefore, in the first embodiment, the WideDynamicRange settingparameter input area 8010 corresponds to a first image processinginformation input area for allowing a user to input the first imageprocessing information concerning the operation of the WDR imagesynthesis processing unit 1006.

The DarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020 includes radiobuttons of three options ON, OFF, and AUTO. In the first embodiment, theoption ON corresponds to an image processing operation option whichindicates that the dark park correction process is caused to beperformed, and the option OFF corresponds to an image processing stopoption which indicates that the dark park correction process is causedto be stopped.

The option corresponding to AUTO corresponds to an image processingautomatic option for causing the monitoring camera 1000 to automaticallycontrol the operation of the exposure correction processing unit 1005.Therefore, in the first embodiment, the DarkCompensation settingparameter input area 8020 corresponds to a second image processinginformation input area for allowing the user to input the second imageprocessing information concerning the operation of the exposurecorrection processing unit 1005.

When the set button 8040 is depressed by the user, the client apparatus2000 sends to the monitoring camera 1000 a SetImagingSettings command7000 based on the details set on the ImagingSettings window 8000. Alongwith the command transmission, the client apparatus 2000 ends thedisplay of the ImagingSettings window 8000.

The ImagingSettings window 8000 in the first embodiment corresponds to auser interface for allowing the user to input values for BLC, WDR, andDC, which are included in the SetImagingSettings command.

When the close button 8041 is depressed by the user, the clientapparatus 2000 ends the display of the ImagingSettings window 8000,without sending the SetImagingSettings command to the monitoring camera1000.

In the example of FIG. 8, DarkCompensation is set to AUTO, and a bar8021 for setting the Level is accordingly grayed out.

In the ImagingSettings window 8000 in FIG. 8, all of theBacklightCompensation (7001), the WideDynamicRange (7002), and theDarkCompensation (7003) can be enabled.

Therefore, the backlight correction process, the WDR process, and thedark part correction process may be performed simultaneously, which maycause a captured image output from the imaging unit 1004 to become toobright. In the first embodiment, the value of the DarkCompensation(7003) can be set to AUTO, and therefore, the monitoring camera 1000 isable to perform an appropriate dark part correction process while takingindividual processes into account.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining a process for displaying theImagingSettings window of the client apparatus 2000 according to thefirst embodiment. The process is executed at the client apparatus 2000when a user of the client apparatus 2000 changes image processingsetting for a captured image which is to be distributed throughstreaming by the monitoring camera 1000.

This process is performed by the control unit 2001. As a result of theprocess, the window illustrated in FIG. 8 is displayed on the displayunit 2006 of the client apparatus 2000.

In the window of ImagingSettings in FIG. 8, only the values of WDR, DC,and BC are displayed to be settable. However, settable values are notlimited to them. For example, in FIG. 8, values of other parametersincluded in FIG. 6A to 6E (or all parameters) may be displayed to besettable.

In step S9000 in FIG. 9, the control unit 2001 issues an instruction tothe display unit 2006 to display the ImagingSettings window illustratedin FIG. 8.

In step S9001, the control unit 2001 executes the transaction 6052, andthereby acquires a list of ImagingSettings from the monitoring camera1000. Then, the control unit 2001 causes the storage unit 1002 to storethe acquired list of ImagingSettings.

Normally, the number of ImagingSettings included in the acquired list isequal to the number of imaging units provided in the monitoring camera.The monitoring camera 1000 in the first embodiment includes one imagingunit 1004. Accordingly, the number of ImagingSettings included in thelist acquired in step S9001 is one. However, the number ofImagingSettings is not limited to this.

For example, it can be assumed that multiple imaging units are providedin the monitoring camera and multiple ImagingSettings are thereforeincluded in the list acquired in step S9001. Based on such anassumption, multiple tabs may be provided within the window in FIG. 8,for switching between multiple ImagingSettings displays.

Alternatively, the window illustrated in FIG. 8 may be displayed forindividual ImagingSettings. For example, in the case where twoImagingSettings are included in the list acquired in step S9001, twowindows in FIG. 8 may be displayed for the two ImagingSettings.

In step S9002, the control unit 2001 executes the transaction 6053, andthereby acquires from the monitoring camera 1000 options and the likefor individual parameters of ImagingSettings that are acceptable by themonitoring camera 1000. Then, the control unit 2001 causes the storageunit 1002 to store information including the acquired options and thelike.

In step S9003, the control unit 2001 causes the display unit 2006 todisplay the window in FIG. 8. The control unit 2001 causes the radiobuttons, which correspond to set values on the window in FIG. 8, to beselected, in accordance with the set values of WDR, DC, and BLC includedin ImagingSettings acquired in step S9001.

For example, the control unit 2001 reads the value of theBacklightCompensation setting parameter in the ImagingSettings stored inthe storage unit 2002. Then, the control unit 2001 determines whetherthe read value is ON or OFF.

When the control unit 2001 determines that the read value is ON, thecontrol unit 2001 causes the option corresponding to ON of the radiobutton, which is included in the BacklightCompensation setting parameterinput area 8030, to be selected.

When the control unit 2001 determines that the read value is OFF, thecontrol unit 2001 causes the option corresponding to OFF of the radiobutton, which is included in the BacklightCompensation setting parameterinput area 8030, to be selected.

Further, the control unit 2001 reads, for example, the value of theWideDynamicRange setting parameter in the ImagingSettings stored in thestorage unit 2002. Then, the control unit 2001 determines whether theread value is ON or OFF.

When the control unit 2001 determines that the read value is ON, thecontrol unit 2001 causes the option corresponding to ON of the radiobutton, which is included in the WideDynamicRange setting parameterinput area 8010, to be selected.

When the control unit 2001 determines that the read value is OFF, thecontrol unit 2001 causes the option corresponding to OFF of the radiobutton, which is included in the WideDynamicRange setting parameterinput area 8010, to be selected.

Further, the control unit 2001 reads, for example, the value of theDarkCompensation setting parameter in the ImagingSettings stored in thestorage unit 2002. Then, the control unit 2001 determines whether theread value is ON, OFF, or AUTO.

When the control unit 2001 determines that the read value is ON, thecontrol unit 2001 causes the option corresponding to ON of the radiobutton, which is included in the DarkCompensation setting parameterinput area 8020, to be selected.

When the control unit 2001 determines that the read value is OFF, thecontrol unit 2001 causes the option corresponding to OFF of the radiobutton, which is included in the DarkCompensation setting parameterinput area 8020, to be selected.

When the control unit 2001 determines that the read value is AUTO, thecontrol unit 2001 causes the option corresponding to AUTO of the radiobutton, which is included in the DarkCompensation setting parameterinput area 8020, to be selected.

Furthermore, the control unit 2001 causes, based on the details of theoptions acquired in step S9002, radio buttons other than the radiobuttons acceptable by the monitoring camera 1000, among the options inthe window of FIG. 8, to be displayed such that they cannot be selectedby the user.

After causing the radio buttons of the WideDynamicRange settingparameter input area 8010 to be displayed in such a manner that aparameter can be input, the control unit 2001 may cause the radiobuttons of the DarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020 to bedisplayed in such a manner that a parameter can be input.

In step S9004, the control unit 2001 waits until any of the buttons onthe window in FIG. 8 is depressed or until the ImagingSettings settingchange event 6055 is received from the monitoring camera 1000.

Then, when it is determined that the set button 8040 is depressed, thecontrol unit 2001 proceeds to step S9005. When it is determined that theclose button 8041 is depressed, the control unit 2001 proceeds to stepS9006. Then, when the ImagingSettings setting change event 6055 isreceived by the communication unit 2003, the control unit 2001 returnsto step S9001.

In step S9005, the control unit 2001 generates the SetImagingSettingscommand 7000, which includes parameters corresponding to the radiobuttons selected in the input areas 8010, 8020, and 8030. Then, thecontrol unit 2001 instructs the communication unit 2003 to transmit thegenerated SetImagingSettings command to the monitoring camera 1000.

That is, in the generated SetImagingSettings command, a valuecorresponding to the option selected through the radio button for theWideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010 or the like isdescribed. Similarly, in the generated SetImagingSettings command, avalue corresponding to the option selected through the radio button forthe DarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020 or the like isdescribed.

In addition, similarly, in the generated SetImagingSettings command, avalue corresponding to the option selected through the radio button forthe BacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030 or the likeis described.

Specifically, when the set button 8040 is depressed for the settingcontents on the window in FIG. 8, the client apparatus 2000 sends theSetImagingSettings command illustrated in FIG. 7 to the monitoringcamera 1000.

In step S9006, the control unit 2001 ends the display of the window inFIG. 8 on the display unit 2006.

As described above, in the first embodiment, in the SetImagingSettingscommand received by the monitoring camera 1000, the WDR settingparameter and the DC setting parameter may be described.

The WDR setting parameter indicates, in an alternative manner, that theWDR process is caused to be operated or that the WDR process is causedto be stopped. Meanwhile, the DC setting parameter indicates, in analternative manner, that the dark part correction process by theexposure correction processing unit 1005 is caused to be operated, thatthe dark part correction process is caused to be stopped, or that theperformance of the dark part correction process is caused to becontrolled by the monitoring camera 1000.

Accordingly, in the case where the WDR process is caused to be operated,the monitoring camera 1000 can be caused to automatically controlwhether the dark part correction process is to be operated. Therefore,with a consideration of the degree at which a captured image isbrightened by each of the WDR process and the dark part correctionprocess, the necessity of controlling the performances of the WDRprocess and the dark part correction process can be reduced.

Further, the SetImagingSettings command and the WDR setting parameter inthe SetImagingSettings command in the first embodiment are standardizedamong plural monitoring camera manufacturers.

For example, the ONVIF standardizes the SetImagingSettings command as asingle command for setting imaging processing and image processing by amonitoring camera. Further, the ONVIF standardizes the WDR settingparameter in this command as a value of either ON or OFF.

In the case where the DC setting parameter is newly added to such aSetImagingSettings command, it is very effective to set a value ofeither ON, OFF, or AUTO as the DC setting parameter.

This is because effects of the WDR process and the dark part correctionprocess vary depending on the monitoring camera manufacturer and it isvery difficult to control the performances of the WDR process and thedark part correction process in such a manner that a captured imageoutput from the imaging unit 1004 is neither too dark nor too bright.

Accordingly, by newly providing AUTO as a value to be set for the DCsetting parameter, as in this embodiment, the performance of the darkpart correction process is able to be automatically controlled by themonitoring camera 1000. Consequently, a situation can be prevented inwhich a captured image output from the imaging unit 1004 is too dark ortoo bright.

Furthermore, the above-mentioned processing is particularly effectivefor a monitoring camera which monitors a predetermined monitoringregion. Specifically, a captured image of a monitoring region isimportant information as an evidence in case of an emergency. Therefore,it is not allowed to inappropriately set the performances of the WDRprocess and the dark part correction process by a monitoring camera andto cause halation and black fullness in the captured image of themonitoring region.

Effects of the first embodiment have been described above based on therelationship between the WDR process and the dark part correctionprocess. The effects of the first embodiment are, however, also similarin the case of the relationship between the backlight correction processand the dark part correction process and the relationship among thebacklight correction process, the WDR correction process, and the darkpart correction process.

Furthermore, in the SetImagingSettings command in the first embodiment,the setting parameter for the DarkCompensation (7003) is described afterthe setting parameter for the WideDynamicRange (7002).

Accordingly, in accordance with the result of the setting of the settingparameter for the WideDynamicRange (7002), the setting parameter for theDarkCompensation (7003) is able to be set. For example, in accordancewith the setting of the value of the Mode of the setting parameter forthe WideDynamicRange (7002) to ON, the value of the Mode of the settingparameter for the DarkCompensation (7003) is able to be set to AUTO.

As a result, after confirming the setting parameter for theWideDynamicRange (7002), the setting parameter for the DarkCompensation(7003) is able to be set. Thus, smooth parameter setting can beattained.

This point applies to the relationship between the setting parameter forthe BacklightCompensation (7001) and the setting parameter for theDarkCompensation (7003).

Furthermore, the monitoring camera 1000 may convert the settingparameter for the DarkCompensation (7003) in accordance with the resultof the setting of the setting parameter for the WideDynamicRange (7002)described in the SetImagingSettings command. For example, the monitoringcamera 1000 may increase or decrease the correction intensity of thesetting parameter for the DarkCompensation (7003) in accordance with thecorrection intensity of the setting parameter for the WideDynamicRange(7002).

Furthermore, the monitoring camera 1000 may control the dark partcorrection process in accordance with a correction result of the WDRprocess. For example, the monitoring camera 1000 may increase ordecrease the correction intensity of the dark part correction process inaccordance with the amount of change in the brightness of a capturedimage by the WDR process. Furthermore, in the case where the performanceof the dark part correction process is automatically controlled by themonitoring camera 1000, the correction process may be operated orstopped in accordance with the amount of change in the brightness of acaptured image by the WDR process.

Furthermore, although the set values for the BC, the WDR, and the DC aretransmitted in the first embodiment, the transmission may be omitted.Moreover, although the Level is set for the BC and the WDR in the firstembodiment, the settings may be omitted.

Although a parameter for setting the dark part correction process by theexposure correction processing unit 1005 is called “DarkCompensation” inthe first embodiment, the parameter is not necessarily called this. Theparameter may be called “DarknessCompensation”, instead of“DarkCompensation”. Alternatively, the parameter may be called“Delighting”, instead of “DarkCompensation”.

In addition, the exposure correction processing unit 1005 in the firstembodiment may be formed of plural processing blocks. In such a case, aprocessing block for performing the backlight correction process and aprocessing block for performing the dark part correction process are notnecessarily the same. For example, among two processing blocks includedin the exposure correction processing unit 1005, one may be used as aprocessing block for performing the backlight correction process and theother may be used as a processing block for performing the dark partcorrection process.

In this case, the processing block for performing the backlightcorrection process corresponds to the first image processing unit whichbrightens a captured image by image processing, and the processing blockfor performing the dark part correction process corresponds to thesecond image processing unit which brightens a captured image by imageprocessing that is different from the image processing performed by thefirst image processing unit.

In step S9004 in the first embodiment, the control unit 2001 maydetermine whether or not the option corresponding to the radio button ONof the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010 has beenselected.

Furthermore, when it is determined that the option corresponding to ONhas been selected, the control unit 2001 may cause the optioncorresponding to the radio button AUTO of the DarkCompensation settingparameter input area 8020 to be selected.

Then, the control unit 2001 may determine whether or not the optioncorresponding to the radio button OFF of the WideDynamicRange settingparameter input area 8010 has been selected.

When it is determined that the option corresponding to OFF has beenselected, the control unit 2001 may cause the option corresponding tothe radio button ON of the DarkCompensation setting parameter input area8020 to be selected.

In step S9004 in the first embodiment, the control unit 2001 maydetermine whether or not the option corresponding to the radio button ONof the BacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030 has beenselected.

Furthermore, when it is determined that the option corresponding to ONhas been selected, the control unit 2001 may cause the optioncorresponding to the radio button AUTO of the DarkCompensation settingparameter input area 8020 to be selected.

Then, the control unit 2001 may determine whether or not the optioncorresponding to the radio button OFF of the BacklightCompensationsetting parameter input area 8030 has been selected.

When it is determined that the option corresponding to OFF has beenselected, the control unit 2001 may cause the option corresponding tothe radio button ON of the DarkCompensation setting parameter input area8020 to be selected.

Furthermore, in step S9004 in the first embodiment, first, the controlunit 2001 may display, on the display unit 2006, only theBacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030. Afterdisplaying the BacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030,when it is determined that a parameter has been input to theBacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030, the controlunit 2001 may display, on the display unit 2006, the WideDynamicRangesetting parameter input area 8010.

After displaying the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010,the control unit 2001 may display, on the display unit 2006, theDarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020.

Accordingly, after the BacklightCompensation setting parameter inputarea 8030 is displayed, the WideDynamicRange setting parameter inputarea 8010 is displayed on the display unit 2006. Further, after theWideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010 is displayed, theDarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020 is displayed on thedisplay unit 2006.

Furthermore, in step S9004 in the first embodiment, first, the controlunit 2001 may display, on the display unit 2006, only theBacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030. Further, afterdisplaying the BacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030,the control unit 2001 may determine whether or not a parameter has beeninput to the BacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030.

When it is determined that a parameter has been input to theBacklightCompensation setting parameter input area 8030, the controlunit 2001 may display the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area8010, on the display unit 2006, in such a manner that a parameter can beinput to the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010. Afterdisplaying the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010, thecontrol unit 2001 may determine whether or not a parameter has beeninput to the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010.

When it is determined that a parameter has been input to theWideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010, the control unit2001 may display the DarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020,on the display unit 2006, in such a manner that a parameter can be inputto the DarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020.

Accordingly, after the BacklightCompensation setting parameter inputarea 8030 is displayed on the display unit 2006 in such a manner that aparameter can be input to the BacklightCompensation setting parameterinput area 8030, the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010is displayed on the display unit 2006 in such a manner that a parametercan be input to the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010.Further, after the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010 isdisplayed on the display unit 2006 in such a manner that a parameter canbe input to the WideDynamicRange setting parameter input area 8010, theDarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020 is displayed on thedisplay unit 2006 in such a manner that a parameter can be input to theDarkCompensation setting parameter input area 8020.

Furthermore, although a single captured image output from the imagingunit 1004 is used and the backlight correction process and the dark partcorrection process are performed as processes for brightening thecaptured image in the first embodiment, the present invention is notlimited to this. For example, instead of any of the backlight correctionprocess and the dark part correction process, a pixel addition processfor brightening a single captured image output from the imaging unit1004, by adding pixels around a target pixel of the captured image.

In the first embodiment, the range of the value of the Level of thesetting parameter for the BacklightCompensation (7001) may be wider thanthe range of the value of the Level of the setting parameter for theDarkCompensation (7003).

Similarly, the range of the value of the Level of the setting parameterfor the WideDynamicRange (7002) may be wider than the range of the valueof the Level of the setting parameter for the DarkCompensation (7003).

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention can also be realized by a computerof a system or apparatus that reads out and executes computer executableinstructions recorded on a storage medium (e.g., non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium) to perform the functions of one ormore of the above-described embodiment(s) of the present invention, andby a method performed by the computer of the system or apparatus by, forexample, reading out and executing the computer executable instructionsfrom the storage medium to perform the functions of one or more of theabove-described embodiment(s). The computer may comprise one or more ofa central processing unit (CPU), micro processing unit (MPU), or othercircuitry, and may include a network of separate computers or separatecomputer processors. The computer executable instructions may beprovided to the computer, for example, from a network or the storagemedium. The storage medium may include, for example, one or more of ahard disk, a random-access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), astorage of distributed computing systems, an optical disk (such as acompact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD), or Blu-ray Disc (BD)™),a flash memory device, a memory card, and the like.

While the present invention has been described with reference toexemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is notlimited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of thefollowing claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as toencompass all such modifications and equivalent structures andfunctions.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An imaging apparatus which communicateswith an external apparatus via a network, the imaging apparatuscomprising: a hardware processor; and a memory for storing instructionsto be executed by the hardware processor, wherein, when the instructionsstored in the memory are executed by the hardware processor, the imagingapparatus functions as: an imaging unit; a first image processing unitconfigured to change, by image processing, a brightness of a capturedimage output from the imaging unit; a second image processing unitconfigured to change, by image processing that is different from theimage processing by the first image processing unit, a brightness of acaptured image output from the imaging unit; a receiving unit configuredto receive, from the external apparatus via the network, a command inwhich first image processing information for controlling an operation ofthe first image processing or second image processing information forcontrolling an operation of the second image processing; and a controlunit configured to control the first image processing and the secondimage processing in accordance with the command received by thereceiving unit, wherein the first image processing information includesinformation indicating whether the first image processing is caused tobe executed or not, and wherein the second image processing informationincludes at least any one of information indicating that the secondimage processing is caused to be executed, information indicating thatthe second image processing is not to be executed, and informationindicating that the operation of the second image processing is causedto be automatically controlled by the imaging apparatus.
 2. The imagingapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first image processing unitchanges the brightness of the captured image output from the imagingunit, by synthesizing plural captured images output from the imagingunit, and wherein the second image processing unit changes, by the imageprocessing, the brightness of a single captured image output from theimaging unit.
 3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein thesecond image processing information described after the first imageprocessing information in the command.
 4. The imaging apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the first image processing informationindicates, in an alternative manner, that the first image processing iscaused to be executed or that the first image processing is caused notto be executed, and wherein the second image processing informationindicates, in an alternative manner, that the second image processing iscaused to be executed, that the second image processing is caused not tobe executed, or that whether the second image processing is caused to beexecuted or not is automatically determined by the imaging apparatus. 5.The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: aconverting unit configured to perform conversion of the second imageprocessing information for controlling the operation of the second imageprocessing, in accordance with the first image processing informationincluded in the command received by the receiving unit.
 6. The imagingapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit includescontrol for switching a correction intensity of the second imageprocessing, in accordance with the brightness of the captured imagechanged by the first image processing.
 7. The imaging apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the control unit includes control forautomatically controlling whether the second image processing to becontrolled by the imaging apparatus is caused to be executed or not, inaccordance with the brightness of the captured image changed by thefirst image processing.
 8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1,wherein the first image processing information indicates that the firstimage processing is caused to be executed and indicates a level at whichthe brightness of the captured image output from the imaging unit ischanged by the first image processing.
 9. The imaging apparatusaccording to claim 8, wherein the level is limited within a specifiedrange.
 10. An image processing control apparatus configured tocommunicate, via a network, with an imaging apparatus including animaging unit, a first image processing unit configured to change, byfirst image processing, a brightness of a captured image output from theimaging unit, and a second image processing unit configured to change,by second image processing that is different from the first imageprocessing by the first image processing unit, a brightness of acaptured image output from the imaging unit, the image processingcontrol apparatus comprising: a transmitting unit configured to transmita command including first image processing information for controllingan operation of the first image processing or second image processinginformation for controlling an operation of the second image processing,wherein the first image processing information includes informationindicating whether the first image processing is caused to be executedor not, and wherein the second image processing information includes atleast any one of information indicating that the second image processingis caused to be executed, information indicating that the second imageprocessing is caused not to be executed, and information indicating thatwhether the second image processing is caused to be executed or not isautomatically determined by the imaging apparatus.
 11. The imageprocessing control apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising:a user interface unit configured to allow a user to input the firstimage processing information and the second image processinginformation, wherein the command includes synthesis information andimage processing information which are input by the user interface unit.12. The image processing control apparatus according to claim 11,wherein the user interface unit allows the first image processinginformation to be input before the second image processing information.13. The image processing control apparatus according to claim 12,wherein the user interface unit displays, on a display unit, a firstimage processing information input area where the first image processinginformation is to be input and a second image processing informationinput area where the second image processing information is to be input.14. The image processing control apparatus according to claim 13,wherein the user interface unit displays the second image processinginformation input area after displaying the first image processinginformation input area.
 15. The image processing control apparatusaccording to claim 13, wherein the user interface unit displays thesecond image processing information input area in such a manner thatinput is able to be performed, after displaying the first imageprocessing information input area in such a manner that input is able tobe performed.
 16. The image processing control apparatus according toclaim 13, wherein the user interface unit displays, on the display unit,the first image processing information input area above the second imageprocessing information input area.
 17. The image processing controlapparatus according to claim 13, wherein the first image processinginformation input area includes a first image processing operationoption indicating that the first image processing is caused to beexecuted or not, wherein the second image processing information inputarea includes a second image processing operation option indicating thatthe second image processing is caused to be executed or not, and animage processing automatic option indicating that whether the secondimage processing is caused to be executed or not is automaticallydetermined by the imaging apparatus, and wherein when the first imageprocessing operation option is selected by the user, the user interfaceunit causes the image processing automatic option to be selected.
 18. Acontrol method for an imaging apparatus which includes an imaging unit,a first image processing unit configured to change, by first imageprocessing, a brightness of a captured image output from the imagingunit, and a second image processing unit configured to change, by secondimage processing that is different from the first image processing bythe first image processing unit, a brightness of a captured image outputfrom the imaging unit, and which communicates with an external apparatusvia a network, the control method comprising: a receiving step ofreceiving, from the external apparatus via the network, a commandincluding first image processing information for controlling anoperation of the first image processing and second image processinginformation for controlling an operation of the second image processing;and a control step of controlling the first image processing and thesecond image processing in accordance with the command received in thereceiving step, wherein the first image processing information includesinformation indicating whether the first image processing is caused tobe executed or not, and wherein the second image processing informationincludes at least any one of information indicating that the secondimage processing is caused to be executed, information indicating thatthe second image processing is caused not to be executed, andinformation indicating that whether the second image processing iscaused to be executed or not is automatically determined by the imagingapparatus.
 19. A control method for an image processing controlapparatus which communicates, via a network, with an imaging apparatusincluding an imaging unit, a first image processing unit configured tochange, by first image processing, a brightness of a captured imageoutput from the imaging unit, and a second image processing unitconfigured to change, by second image processing that is different fromthe first image processing by the first image processing unit, abrightness of a captured image output from the imaging unit, the controlmethod comprising: a transmitting step of transmitting a commandincluding first image processing information for controlling anoperation of the first image processing and second image processinginformation for controlling an operation of the second image processing,wherein the first image processing information includes at least any oneof information indicating whether the first image processing is causedto be executed or not, and wherein the second image processinginformation includes information indicating that the second imageprocessing is caused to be executed, information indicating that thesecond image processing is caused not to be executed, and informationindicating that whether the second image processing is caused to beexecuted or not is automatically determined by the imaging apparatus.